Picture of Beauty

“Picture of Beauty”, a 2017 British erotic drama, is directed by Maxim Ford. It follows Franek, a painter known for his artistic forgeries, who is commissioned by a local brothel owner to dazzle a clientele with an alluring painting crafted specifically to entice visitors. As Franek searches for models, his assistant Hazel introduces him to Stephane, a radical feminist who was recently expelled from university for her political activism. She also brings along her friend Julia—a sheltered young woman who recently escaped an abusive marriage to an older police officer. Franek’s subjects embark on a renovation of their self-image as they grapple with the societal oppression while figuring out their identities, sexuality, and the truth behind freedom.

Main cast:

Julia, played by Taylor Sands – Freed from an overpowering husband’s control, Julia transforms her identity during the pessimistic modeling sessions.

Stephanie, played by Danielle Rose – A radical political activist and Julia’s friend introduced to Franek.

In his search for suitable models, Franek’s assistant Hazel introduces him to a politically active young woman recently expelled from the university for her activism, Stephanie. She, in turn, brings along her naive and innocent friend, Julia, who has fled an abusive arranged marriage to a much older and influential police officer. While posing for Franek’s paintings, the women freelance for a construction archetype of femininity and endeavor into the mythic landscapes of femininity.

Pawel Hajnos as Franek: A skilled painter and art forger tasked to create an enticing piece for a brothel.

Magdalena Bochan-Jachimek as Hazel: Franek’s indefatigable assistant who helped with model selection.

Nerdly

Sylwia Kaczmarek as Madam: The Brothel owner employing Franek’s artistry.

Themes and Style:

Picture of Beauty explores the themes of sexual repression, the search for autonomy, and the redemptive qualities of art. The film contrasts the characters’ self-realizations against the harsh backdrop of a stifling society. Director Maxim Ford uses a style inspired by early erotic films, paying special attention to the use of naturalistic light and soft focus to enhance the feeling of warmth and tenderness.

Reception:

The film has received moderate reviews. While some passionatley love the thematic exploration of sexuality and beauty, many others sharply criticize the script and delivery. For example, a review from Nerdly argued the film’s blend of eroticism with a narrative of societal repression was ambitious, but fell short in nhiều aspects.

Availability:

Picture of Beauty can be streamed on different websites, but access may differ depending on region.

This film offers contemplation alongside art and sexuality against a backdrop of society’s constraints and meticulously provides an examination of beauty, blended with historical context.

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